The Leisure and Cultural Services Department (LCSD) is inviting participants to take part in the 2003 Hong Kong Flower Show's floral exhibit competitions. Applications will be accepted until February 7.

The 2003 Hong Kong Flower Show, to be held at Victoria Park from 9am to 9pm from March 7 to 16, will feature Phalaenopsis as its theme flower and "Orchid Splendor" as its theme. There will be a unique display of exquisite flowers and plants from local, Mainland and overseas, whereas winning entries of the competitions will be put on display for public enjoyment.

The competitions, comprising Open and School Categories, will be divided into 16 sections and 93 classes. These include scented flower; orchid; Chinese cymbidium; potted plant; cactus and succulent; foliage plant; African violet; bonsai type plant; floral arrangement in western style and oriental manner; floral art by school children; western and Oriental style garden plot; school garden plot; and primary and secondary school potted plant growing/nursing.

Section winners will be awarded trophies while winners for all classes will be awarded certificates. The Hong Kong Flower Show Cups will be awarded to the best exhibit of Open Section and School Section. A prize presentation ceremony will be held during the Show at Victoria Park.

Application is free of charge. Entry forms should be forwarded to the Secretary, 2003 Hong Kong Flower Show Committee, 11/F, Leisure and Cultural Services Headquarters, 1-3 Pai Tau Street, Sha Tin, Hong Kong on or before February 7.

Entry forms as well as rules and regulations of the competition are available from the following venues:

To coincide with the Show, a variety of competitions and activities will be held including the popular plant exhibit competitions, student drawing competitions and photo competitions; as well as horticultural talks and demonstrations, music and dances performances throughout the 10-day Show period. The Happy Wonderland with interesting games for children and their families will be available during the weekends.

Admission fees for adults are $14 whereas children and students are offered at half price. Senior citizens and persons with a disability are admitted free of charge from Monday to Friday, but they have to pay $7 on Saturday and Sunday. Groups of 30 persons or above are offered at concession rates of $7 each on weekdays.